The incident began when a Mitchell County SRO noticed a male subject walking past the SRO’s office and entering the school’s main office. As the individual passed, the Deputy observed a pistol in the man's front pocket. The officer immediately and safely confronted the man, taking the weapon without further incident.
Investigation Uncovers Second Weapon
As the investigation unfolded, officers located a second firearm inside the man’s vehicle parked on school property. The male individual claimed he had simply forgotten he was carrying the gun when he entered the school building.
This incident led to the arrest of two individuals. Authorities are reminding the community of the serious nature of weapons on school grounds.
Arrested: Joshua Paul Menard Sr (Age 35)
Hoot owl Road Spruce Pine
Christine Richard Menard (age 35)
Wyatt Town Road Spruce Pine
Legal Reminder: Guns on School Grounds
It is illegal to possess a firearm on any school campus or facility, regardless of whether the individual holds a valid concealed carry permit. This law applies to everyone, including parents, visitors, and off-duty law enforcement, with very few statutory exceptions.
Editor's Note: A criminal charge is an accusation, by law, a person accused of a crime is innocent until proven in a court of law.
WNCTimes
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